April 2025 Dreamletter

The following is an excerpt of a recent email from the Director of Programs and Operations of Notre Dame Mission Volunteers, our principal partner and connection to the Americorps program. Read on for updates and several ways you can advocate.

...You may already be aware that NDMV leadership is closely monitoring a deeply concerning situation that may jeopardize the current and future operation of AmeriCorps. While we wish we had clearer answers, things are unfolding in real time—even for us—and we want to keep you informed and united with us as partners through this moment.

Most importantly: your partnership means everything right now. The work we do together has never been more critical. Thank you for standing with your NDMV members and with us as we navigate this unprecedented situation.

What We Know So Far:

• Last week, representatives from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) visited the AmeriCorps national agency.

• That led to developments on Tuesday, April 15, in which all AmeriCorps members in the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) were released early from service under CPC (Compelling Personal Circumstances).

• Wednesday evening, reports emerged that 85% of AmeriCorps staff were placed on administrative leave, leaving just 100 staff nationwide to oversee programs.

• Despite these staffing reductions, there is no official indication at this time that AmeriCorps State and National (including NDMV), VISTA, or other grant-funded programs are paused or being dissolved. That said, we have no guarantees how DOGE will proceed with this continued agency-wide review.

• There is a great deal of misinformation being spread. If you hear anything or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your Site Manager or NDMV Leadership directly. We will do our best to address any questions.

We understand how unsettling this is. While the NDMV service year remains active and unaffected at this time, we are monitoring the situation hourly and remain in contact with key partners at the agency as well as Voices for National Service. Please reach out to your Site Manager or NDMV Leadership if you hear conflicting information or have concerns—we’re here and doing our best to sort fact from rumor.

What We Need Most Right Now: Your Advocacy

Since your site has seen the impact of NDMV members, now is the time to speak up for them—and for the future of national service. Here’s how you can help:

1. Call your U.S. Senators.
   • Start with your state, then consider reaching out to states where NDMV members serve.
     • Colorado Michael Bennet https://www.bennet.senate.gov/ (202) 224-5852
     • Colorado John Hickenlooper https://www.hickenlooper.senate.gov/ (202) 224-5941
   • This sample call script can help guide your message.
2. Email your lawmakers using the Voices for National Service Link.
3. Engage on social media.
   • Share posts from trusted advocates:
     • Voices for National Service: Facebook / Instagram
     • Service Year Alliance: Facebook / Instagram
   • Use your platform to amplify what you’ve seen and experienced through this partnership.
4. Leverage personal connections.
   • If you or someone in your network has a relationship with a state or federal legislator, please reach out—or connect them with us. We’re happy to help guide the conversation.

This is not an easy moment, but we remain grounded in the deep truth we all know: service works. It transforms communities, changes lives, and builds a better future. Thank you for continuing to be part of that work—and for being the kind of partners we can count on when it matters most.